Telework eligibleFederal

Cryogenic Scientist

National Institute of Standards and Technology · Department of Commerce

Salary
$83,265–$129,742/year
Grade
3
Work location
Telework eligible (US)
Posted
Aug 4, 2026
Apply by
Aug 24, 2026
Category
Mechanical Engineering

Apply on USAJOBS →

Source: USAJOBS. Applications happen on the original posting, not on this site.

Summary

PML's Quantum Sensors Division is hiring a Cryogenic Scientist to develop, test, and optimize advanced cryogenic systems for quantum information science, improve cryocooler performance, advance refrigeration technologies through fundamental and applied research, and publish and present scientific findings. This notice is issued under direct-hire authority to recruit new talent to occupations for which NIST has a severe shortage of candidates.

Duties

The mission of NIST's Quantum Sensors Division is to develop and apply advanced quantum-based photon and particle sensors that enable highly precise measurements across the electromagnetic spectrum. Through pioneering research, collaboration with industry and academia, and innovation in superconducting and cryogenic technologies, the Division advances measurement science in fields ranging from quantum computing and fundamental physics to nuclear science and astronomy. If hired for this role, your major duties will include: Developing, testing, and optimizing advanced cryogenic systems and refrigeration technologies to support quantum information science applications. Conducting independent research to improve cryocooler performance, including efficiency, size, weight, power, and overall system capability. Performing fundamental and applied research to advance the science of cryogenic refrigeration and develop novel cooling technologies. Publishing research findings in peer-reviewed journals and presenting technical results at scientific conferences.

Education

This position has an education requirement. Transcripts must be submitted to validate that the education requirement has been met. Unofficial transcripts will be accepted in the application package. However, an official copy will be required before a final offer of employment. Use of foreign education for qualifications. An accredited organization must evaluate education completed outside of the U.S. to ensure that it is comparable to education received in accredited institutions in the U.S. Click here to view a listing of accredited organizations from the Department of Education's website. A copy of the foreign education evaluation (containing the results with course-by-course listing) is required with your application.

How you will be evaluated

Please prepare a resume that is no longer than two pages; only the first two pages will be considered during the review process. Ensure your font is 11 points or larger and upload your resume as a .pdf document. This helps ensure your formatting looks exactly the way you intended. How you will be evaluated: You will be evaluated for this job based on how well you meet the qualifications above. Once the announcement has closed, a review of your resume and supporting documentation will be used to determine whether you meet the qualification requirements listed in this announcement. Overstating your qualifications and/or experience in your application materials or application questionnaire may result in your removal from consideration. Subject Matter Experts (SMEs) may be used to review your resume to determine your technical qualifications for this position based on the required specialized experience. SMEs will review ONLY two (2) pages of your resume. SMEs will not review additional information beyond your resume. Applications will be assessed on the following competencies: Communications and Media Fluid Dynamics and Mechanics Mechanical Engineering Referral: All applicants may be referred to the selecting official for consideration. Under Direct Hire Authority, applicants are not rated and ranked, and veteran preference does not apply. CTAP or ICTAP eligibility: If you are a displaced or surplus Federal employee eligible for the Career Transition Assistance Plan (CTAP) or Interagency Career Transition Assistance Plan (ICTAP), you must be determined eligible and rated as well-qualified to receive special selection priority. "Well Qualified" means that in addition to meeting the minimum qualification requirements and selective placement factor(s), if applicable, you must receive a score of 85 or higher. Please review the following site regarding required documents to support CTAP or ICTAP eligibility and additional information regarding this authority - CTAP/ICTAP Eligibility

Check your resume against this job

Rule-based, on-device analysis — your resume text is never sent to our servers or stored anywhere. Not a substitute for professional resume review.